To fully exploit the potential of connected digital technologies, manufacturers need to consider the whole lifecycle of a product: from initial design and prototyping through to full-scale production and beyond to servicing. Prof Darek Ceglarek introduces the concepts.

Ground-breaking research from the University of Surrey and Augmented Optics, in collaboration with the University of Bristol, has developed potentially transformational technology which could revolutionise the capabilities of appliances that have previously relied on battery power to work.

Machining, composite and integrated manufacturing specialists at the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre have joined forces to build what is believed to be the world’s first reconfigurable carbon composite robotic machine tool.

A consortium comprising the world’s leader in aircraft landing gear, a leading specialist metals producer and two of the UK’s leading universities is working on FastForge, a project aimed at the production of aerospace-grade titanium at a third of the current price.

Driverless cars promise safer roads, less congestion, more free time for drivers, and independence for those currently unable to drive – but what will the reality actually look like? Dr Stewart Birrell reports.